Visit Narragansett RI

Narragansett occupies a narrow strip of land between the Pettaquamscutt River and Narragansett Bay. Its sandy beaches and lush inland woods appealed to wealthy Victorians, who transformed the area into an exclusive resort by building hotels, Narragansett Pier and the renowned Towers Casino. Built in 1883, the casino has been restored fully and now houses the local chamber of commerce.Although the 1938 hurricane washed away the pier, locals still refer to the downtown area as “the pier.”

Narragansett has beautiful beaches which attract many visitors and is home to a large commercial fishing fleet. Take a scenic drive down Route 1A to see the ocean and grand old shingle-style homes. You’ll eventually wind up at Point Judith Lighthouse, which has been in continuous operation since the 19th century. Check out all the great beaches of the east coast here. Visit Narragansett RI today!

Weather – When to Visit Narragansett

Average temperatures in Narragansett vary drastically. Considering humidity, temperatures feel cold for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a chance of rain most of the year. If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Narragansett, the hottest months are July, August, and then June. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally mid July where highs are regularly around 84.1°F (28.9°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 72.6°F (22.6°C) at night.

While Narragansett in the summertime is great for shorts, tank tops or t-shirts, and bathing suits, you are going to want to pack warmer clothing for the winter weather – pants, sweaters, sweatshirts, and jackets are all necessities, and since the area is so close to the water the wind can be bitter, so gloves, hats, and scarves are recommended for those chilly days.

What Should You Pack?

When figuring out what to pack for the beach, there are two tips to keep in mind. First, forgetting an item isn’t the end of the world. Unless you’re heading for a remote, deserted island, chances are you can find a store where you can pick up the extras. Second, don’t stress out over making a packing list when there’s a stress-free beach travel essentials list for you below:

  • Sunglasses and hats offer much-needed sunscreen and flip flops are perfect for navigating hot, sandy beaches. Go pack them now so you’re not kicking yourself later.
  • What about those little items that make beach visits so much more enjoyable? For a little extra comfort on your trip, make sure you pack: Lip balmsunscreenbug spray.
  • Beach toys and goggles are a must for kids. Building sandcastles and viewing the underwater wonders are perennial favorites.
  • Take a first-aid kit with you. Hopefully you’ll only have to worry about a few minor scrapes from seashells, but having your own kit handy is a good precaution.
  • Beach Bag – Your beach bag will likely contain a few of the items mentioned above. For a well-rounded bag, consider tossing in sunscreenlip balmbug sprayfirst-aid kit and water-proof baggies.
  • Beach Gear – No matter who’s supplying the gear, look to have the following items on hand: beach bagbeach chairsbeach towelsbeach umbrella or tentbeach cart and a cooler.
  • Remember: Don’t wait until you’re parched to drink. When you’re out in the heat and sun, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking regularly. So take along a water bottle as well.

Narragansett State Beaches

Scarborough State Beach

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Scarborough State Beach Scarborough State Beach is Rhode Island’s most popular and well known beach. Developed in 1937, this 26 acre facility located on Ocean Road in Narragansett has approximately 2,325 feet of beach frontage. It has long been known as the principal destination for a “day at the beach” for thousands of Rhode Islanders over the years.

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Roger Wheeler State Beach

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Roger Wheeler State Beach Named for the man who developed the Rhode Island State Life-Saving System, Roger Wheeler State Beach is also known locally as Sand Hill Cove Beach. Protected from Block Island Sound by an extensive breakwater barrier, this is a popular beach for young children and families due to gentle surf as this beach is fully.

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Salty Brine State Beach

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Salty Brine State Beach Salty Brine State Beach is a sandy and clean beach with gentle surf as this beach is also fully protected from Block Island Sound by an extensive breakwater barrier. Formerly known as Galilee State Beach, Salty Brine State beach was dedicated in 1990 to Rhode Island’s most widely recognized radio personality, Salty Brine.

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Narragansett Attractions

Narragansett Beach

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Narragansett Beach is a classic New England Saltwater Coastal Beach front that offers some of the best, cleanest and accessible beach conditions for the residents and tourist in New England. Located in the center of town, the beach offers ample parking in the North, South, West and Cabana parking areas along with food, restrooms, first-aid office, surfing area and a beautiful sandy beachfront.

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Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge

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The refuge includes 787 acres of various wildlife habitats including fields, shrublands, woodlands, fresh and saltwater ponds and sandy beaches and dunes. Approximately 300 bird species, more than 40 mammal species, and 20 species of reptiles and amphibians call Trustom Pond refuge home during the year.

Cliff Walk

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The Cliff Walk along the eastern shore of Newport, RI is world famous as a public access walk that combines the natural beauty of the Newport shoreline with the architectural history of Newport’s gilded age. Wildflowers, birds, geology … all add to this delightful walk. What makes Cliff Walk unique is that it is a National Recreation Trail in a National Historic District.

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Beavertail Lighthouse & Park

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The lighthouse and the area around it is part of the Rhode Island park system. It includes a lighthouse museum, grassy, wooded and rocky areas as well as walking and biking paths. The rocky perimeter can be a place for peaceful contemplation or energetic climbing and exploration.

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Point Judith Lighthouse

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An octagonal brick building erected in 1816. A Coast Guard and tower beacon were maintained at the point during the Revolution. Original wooden lighthouse, built in 1806, was blown down in the Great Gale of September 1815. The last German U-Boat sunk in World War II was two miles off the light. Visitors welcome to the grounds; lighthouse and Coast Guard Station restricted.

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Things to do in Narragansett

C-Devil II Sportfishing Inc.

Passengers can board the vessel for 4- to 12-hour excursions, during which you have the opportunity to catch Striped Bass, Bluefish, Tautog, Fluke, Cod, Tuna, and even Sharks. The boat itself is stocked with all the gear necessary to take on fish of all sizes. C-Devil can also take you on a whale or seal watch, lighthouse tour, or a sightseeing tour designed just for you. Telephone: 401-374-1439 Web: C-Devil II Sportfishing Inc.

Narrow River Kayaks

For those seeking a personalized and educational experience on the water, Narrow River Kayaks offers a variety of guided excursions. This is a great way for a beginner to explore the watershed with the added comfort of an experienced guide to lead the way. Telephone: 401-789-0334 Web: Narrow River Kayaks

Antique Yacht Collection

Antique Yacht Collection offers private cruises for groups of six or less. Cruise beautiful Newport harbor from your own classic boat, cruises start at 1hr45min for $290. We encourage guests to BYOB, and BYO swimsuit. Pets are always welcome. Telephone: 401-678-6740 Web: Antique Yacht Collection

Gansett Cruises

Gansett Cruises – Harbor Tours, Sunset Cruises and Private Charters from Newport Harbor, Rhode Island. On your Gansett cruise you’ll break away from the typical rushed harbor tour to offer a quiet, relaxing and delightful historic cruise through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay’s East Passage on their comfortably cushioned and sun-shaded deck, or their top ‘sunny side’ deck. Telephone: 401-619-1300 Web: Gansett Cruises

Warm Winds

Warm Winds welcomes people of all ages and surfing abilities to join them for a lesson. Whether you’ve previously taken lessons or never tried surfing before, with a positive attitude and the ability to swim by yourself, you’ll be out there shredding with best of them in no time! Telephone: 401-789-9040 Web: Warm Winds

Best Narragansett Restaurants

Aunt Carrie’s Seafood Restaurant $11 – 30

They are very well known for their clam cakes and chowder. They offer three different types of chowder, all made fresh. Aunt Carrie’s is very affordable and provides a great atmosphere. You can place your order to stay or to go: there is an indoor dining area as well as screened in picnic tables. If you choose to go, walk down the path to the beach and enjoy the ocean view. Telephone: 401-783-7930 Web: Aunt Carrie’s Seafood Restaurant

George’s of Galilee $11 – 30

A family seafood restaurant that doubles as a bar at night located right on the beach. Wide selection of fresh local seafood, a sushi menu, lobster specials, as well as slow roasted prime rib. Sometimes offers live entertainment. Sit upstairs, downstairs, or outside to enjoy the ocean views. While the food is fresh, the service can be unpredictable when the restaurant is full. Telephone: 401-783-2306 Web: George’s of Galilee

Turtle Soup

Turtle Soup is literally right across the street from Narragansett Beach’s Seawall offering a beautiful view indoors or outdoor seating on the front lawn. This restaurant offers a wide variety of food including seafood, pasta, burgers, salads and soups. Not child-friendly. Telephone: 401-792-8683 Web: Turtle Soup

Trio $11 – 30

The menu reflects authentic New England seafood offerings with South County influences and ingredients, as well as steaks and chops and house-made pastas inspired by the Mediterranean. Inside dining is traditional and open-air dining can be enjoyed on their patio against the backdrop of Narragansett Bay, just steps from the beach. Telephone: 401-792-4333 Web: Trio

Matunuck Oyster Bar $11 – 30

With the Oyster Bar’s small exterior, you may drive right by the place. With a raving reputation for delicious locally raised shellfish and a breathtaking view this waterside shack may be South County’s best kept secret. Lines are long, especially in summer. Snag a table outside if you can. Telephone: 401-783-4202 Web: Matunuck Oyster Bar

Best Narragansett Nightlife

Bon Vue Inn

Bon Vue is a great place to hear live music and cheap drinks. Bon Vue has three floors all over looking the ocean, and open to porches in the summer months. Telephone: 401-789-0696 Web: Bon Vue Inn

Charlie O’s Tavern

If you are looking for a great place to meet people or go with your friends, Charlie-O’s is the place. Thursday nights are free pool nights. Sunday is $5 pitchers of Sangria. Who can forget about Happy Hr. going on during the week from 4-6PM TVs line the walls so you don’t miss a beat of your favorite team in action. Telephone: 401-782-2002 Web: Charlie O’s Tavern

Simon’s

Located above Charlie O’s, new bar featuring specialty martinis. Simon’s is a relaxed atmosphere where you can play darts or shuffle board, or comfortably sit around on couches while drinking and talking to friends. Telephone: 401-783-2900

Pancho O Malley’s

“Irish Pub with Mexican Grub”. They provide a large and interesting variety of food and drinks. Serving everynight until 1AM!  Telephone: 401-782-2299 Web: Pancho O Malley’s

Coast Guard House

Amazing view and very friendly service. They have a great beer selection with a huge choice of local drafts available. If your are hungry, they have wonderful food as well! Telephone: 401-789-0700 Web: Coast Guard House

Best Narragansett Hotels

Scarborough Beach Motel

Just steps from Scarborough State Beach, this motel is non-smoking and has been recently renovated. It is thoughtfully decorated and includes one complimentary parking space per room, air conditioning, cable tv, refrigerator, micro-wave, iron and ironing board. All rooms come with cable TV. Select rooms offer a kitchenette, sitting area, or sofa bed.

Shephard’s Place B&B

Each room or suite at Sheppard’s Place is air-conditioned. Free toiletries can also be found in each private bathroom. The large suite is separate from the main building and provides a living room, laundry facilities, a full kitchen and a private deck overlooking the garden.

The Atlantic House

Originally built during the winter of 1866-67, and having been remolded, The Atlantic House boasts of days-of-old charm with modern-day amenities. All rooms have individual climate control, microwave ovens, small refrigerators, hair dryers, coffee makers, iron and ironing boards and color television with cable reception.

Ocean Rose Inn

On Ocean Road, the lovely 31-room Victorian-style Ocean Rose Inn exudes a unique sense of authentic nautical and quirky beach-side chic combined with traditional area charm. From sprawling verandas lined with rocking chairs, guests savor soft ocean breezes. Accommodations include 9 traditional one-of-kind Victorian Villa rooms.

The Anchor Motel

Located at Scarborough State Beach; a few steps across the small two-lane road and you are on the beach! Fifteen immaculate rooms each with an ocean view and a private deck. Non-smoking motel, great for guests of all ages. Rooms have two double beds (or one king-sized bed), bathroom, refrigerator, AC/heater, cable TV, and wireless internet. Close to the Block Island ferry, the historic towers, Point Judith Lighthouse, and the University of Rhode Island. Continental breakfast served daily.



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32 Comments

  1. Jack

    Leahrae you have done a great job of letting people know about this vacation wonderland.It is obvious that you have done a lot work to produce this outstanding article.Seafood on the low low!Those lounging places are impeccable. The imagery that you used was very impressive.They made your article very appealing and refreshing.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Great Jack, thanks for stopping !  Hopefully you can visit Narragansett RI soon for some seafood!

      Reply
  2. Seyi

    I have a couple of things that made this article a little more interesting for me. Aside the fact that I’m a lover of beach and I have been to a few, I still find this a little exciting for me. Guess it’s because of Gansett Cruise or the sea food. I just find it interesting in a way and it makes me wanna try out the place. Nice article

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thanks Seyi!  You will have to visit Narragansett RI soon then 🙂

      Reply
  3. Peace

    Narragansett sounds like a fun place to be. A tourist’s dream land. 

    I love temperate temperatures, because I hate any form of extremity, temperatures inclusive. I’m from an extremely hot country, and I’ve always looked out for a time, I can break out from this heat, and visit some place cool and nice. 

    The temperature and the beaches of Narragansett, seems like an ideal match for me. 

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Great!  You will have to visit Narragansett RI then 🙂

      Reply
  4. Adamu2

    I absolutely love this insightful article because it is full of great information. This is fascinating and interesting to me.Have gotten an experience in a visit to different beach vacation, longing for a visit to Narragansett beach. My visit will be in the month of July like this article said its the warmth season. Am so impressed with all the information loaded in this article. Is there a restaurant that sells Pizza at the Narragansett beach? Thanks for the review. Regards

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Glad you enjoyed Adam.  Yes, head to Leo’s Pizza!  Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply
  5. R.J.

    Hey Leahrae, nice article. I’ve always wanted to go to Rhode Island and your article outlines some of the greatest destinations in the state. Thanks so much for this information and I didn’t know that Rhode Island had so many beaches but it is very appealing, I’m not one for the beach but there’s no arguing that some of those beaches are the prettiest I’ve ever seen including the lighthouse structure. Good job!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thanks R.J.!  And thanks for stopping by beach travel destinations.

      Reply
  6. ajibola40

    Every picture of Narragansett beaches really look attractive and it going to be good site to have that nice beach summer pictures with friends and family.all the beaches are wonderful places but the place that get my attention most is Narragansett Beach,it really the best place for two lovers to have wonderful tourism experience and also see beauty of nature 

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      You are right!  Great place for a romantic getaway for sure!

      Reply
  7. Kevin

    After my trip to New York, something away from all the traffic, buildings, and subways is needed. Don’t get me wrong, New York was great, but a break is always good. Narragansett seems like a great place to go to! I’ve been longing to go to a beach for a while and this seems like a pretty decent candidate. The style of the hotels and the cost of seafood is really drawing me in!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Then it is time for to visit Narragansett RI Kevin!  Please let me know if you need any additional information.

      Reply
  8. Adrian Holland

    Hi, thanks once again for yet another beautiful article, I am very jealous. I always find your articles beautifully formed, really well researched and delivered so fantastically I often wonder how you manage it.

    The only question that i have is that i wonder how you manage to research so thoroughly? If it is by visiting all of the wonderful places that you review then my jealousy just jumped several degrees.

    Rgds

    Ade

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      LOL Ade!   I do a LOT of research for sure.  There are a lot of places….beaches …I have been too, but not RI yet…  Thanks for visiting!

      Reply
  9. Buck

    Another awesome travel recommendation! I’m saving all of these! As someone who used to live in the north, but not quite far enough to experience extreme cold, would you say that there are shortened summers in RI compared to say, Maryland or Virginia? I’m curious about what the very best time of year would be to experience a nice, laid back, warm beach vacation.

    Thanks!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      I would say the summers are gonna be about the same really.  Head down further south to say Florida and you will get a longer summer.  I am glad you enjoyed Buck, and thanks for stopping by beach travel destinations.

      Reply
  10. Carmen & Ben

    I’m too a travel lover and I really enjoyed your post.

    I’ve never been to RI or Narragansett.  The beaches look amazing, but quite frankly you had me at $5 Sangria pitchers on Sunday!

    The temperatures look so delightful, as even in July does not get to be too hot at all, I mean 84 degrees sounds very lovely and amazing.

    I will definitely add Narragansett to my traveling destinations list.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Great!  Yes the $5 Sangria pitches is awesome!  You will have a great time in Narragansett!  Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply
  11. Chris Isaac

    I think Narragansett beaches look wonderful! Especially the Scarborough State Beach, I want to visit that one. I have been looking into visiting the East Coast, and I would not have thought about Rhode Island.  But, it has everything that I am looking for, so I am definitely looking to plan a trip here.  Thanks for the informative post.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      You are welcome Chris!  I hope you visit Narragansett RI soon, and if you need any additional information please let me know.  Thanks for stopping by beach travel destinations.

      Reply
  12. Ciara

    I have a really good friend that lives in Providence. I will have to google how far away this is from his home because I would love to go explore here! It looks absolutely beautiful!

    Do you have a favorite beach or attraction? The Wildlife refuge looks so wild and awesome to explore.

    The hotels are just outstandingly beautiful! What an awesome article you have shared. I am absolutely bookmarking this!

    Thank you so much for the fresh ideas!

    –Ciara

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Of course my favorite beach attraction is going to be the beach!  Being the beach bum that I am LOL.  But I love walking along the beach, so the cliff walk is going to be my favorite attraction.  I am glad you enjoyed.  Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply
  13. Tyler

    I honestly never imagined Rhode Island to be such a nice tourist destination.

    Thank you for this wonderful tour guide outline. Shepherd’s Place looks absolutely gorgeous.

    There is a wealth of research and information that makes it simple for someone to plan their trip. Not many people outline the cost of local restaurants and other intricate details you have found.

    Very well done.

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Thank you so much Tyler.  Glad you enjoyed visiting Narragansett RI!

      Reply
  14. Claudia

    Narragansett looks so beautiful and so peaceful. Why go on vacation and just stay there forever. Looks like the perfect place to get away from it all. I think it would be a great place for a family vacation.  Playing in the water, the sand, going boating, relaxing….I don’t think it could get any better!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      Yes, you are right!  You and your family would really enjoy a Narragansett vacation.  Please let me know if you need any other information.  Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply
  15. Effie

    Two things draw my attention in this city apart from its beaches and the attractions it offers. The first is the possibility to live a Kayak experience! I did it a couple of times and I simply loved it! The other and perhaps the most important for a seafood lover like me is the unbelievable pricing of seafood in the restaurants. Are you sure there are no mistakes?

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      They are no mistake Effie! I love seafood as well. You can’t better than in the south, especially here in Narragansett! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  16. Daniella

    Hi Lea,

    My coworker is planning a trip, but he still doesn’t know where to go:)He wanted me to help him find a place to visit and organize his trip because he knows I have a lot of experience in this branch:) So this is it, I found the spot, now the only thing left for me to do is to share this article with him so he can already search in the Booking engine. He lives in the UK, so I was wondering if he needs a visa to visit Narragansett?

    Thank you for this excellent post!

    Reply
    1. Leahrae (Post author)

      No Visa Daniella. Just a valid passport will work for him 🙂 He will love it! Let him know I am here to help!

      Reply

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